Introduction
Equine gastric disorders, also called Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome (EGUS) in horses, are a common problem. These ulcers occur when stomach acid is not managed properly, leading to inflammation and ulcers within the stomach lining. Equine gastric ulcers may cause weight loss, stomach discomfort, and poor performance. Gastric ulcers can lead to serious health issues if left untreated. There are many ways to treat equine stomach ulcers in horses. It is important that horse owners and veterinarians be aware of the symptoms and signs of EGUS.
What are Equine Gastric Ulcers (EGU)?
Equine gastric ulcers can be painful and affect horses of all ages. These ulcers can be caused by acidity imbalances that can cause inflammation and ulcers in stomach lining. EGUS is most commonly caused by stress, excessive grain intake, lack of exercise, and lack thereof. You may also experience stomach lining trauma, infection or other causes.
How to identify Equine Gastric Ulcers
Because they don’t always present with visible symptoms, equine gastric ulcers are difficult to diagnose. There are several ways to diagnose EGUS in horses. First, look out for changes in behavior and appetite. Horses suffering from EGUS might become less active or have a reduced appetite. Horses with EGUS may also experience colic and discomfort when their stomachs touch. A veterinary exam is the second method to determine if your horse has EGUS. A gastroscopy may be used by your veterinarian to inspect the stomach lining for signs and symptoms of ulcers. To examine the stomach lining, a specialist camera is used to perform gastroscopy. To examine the lining under a microscope, your veterinarian might also take a sample from the stomach.
Blood tests
To check for inflammation in the stomach lining, your veterinarian may perform blood tests. These tests can confirm a diagnosis for EGUS.
Ultrasound Examination
Your veterinarian may also perform an ultrasound exam to look for signs of stomach ulcers. Ultrasound, a non-invasive procedure that uses sound waves and images to show the internal organs and tissues of the body, is non-invasive.
How to treat Equine Gastric Ulcers
There are many ways to treat EGUS once a diagnosis has been made. First, reduce stress levels in horses. You can do this by creating a calm, relaxed environment that is free from competition and strenuous activity. Reduce the amount of grain that the horse is consuming is the second option. You can reduce the horse’s intake of grains or feed a high-fiber diet.
Medications
EGUS can also be treated with medications. To reduce stomach acid and promote healing, your veterinarian may recommend medications like antisecretory and proton pump inhibitors.
Surgery
Sometimes, surgery may be required to treat EGUS. Horses with persistent or severe ulcers that won’t respond to medications may need surgery.
FAQ
What are the signs and symptoms of equine stomach ulcers?
Equine gastric ulcers may cause weight loss, stomach discomfort, poor performance, colic, or colic. Horses may also show decreased appetite or decreased activity.
How can equine stomach ulcers be treated?
The best treatment for EGUS is to lower the horse’s stress level, decrease the horse’s grain intake, and use medication to reduce stomach acid and promote healing. Sometimes, surgery is necessary.
Conclusion
Horses suffering from equine gastric ulcers (EGUS) can be very painful and dangerous. There are many ways to treat EGUS in horses. Horse owners and veterinarians should be aware of the symptoms and signs. You can reduce the horse’s risk.